Top reasons to visit Salinas
- Stunning Beaches: Salinas boasts beautiful beaches like Salinas Maceió and Salinas Monterey, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Thrilling Water Activities: The area offers exciting water slides and outdoor adventures for the adventurous spirit.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with vibrant art galleries and film screenings that showcase local talent.
- Excellent Shopping: Discover a variety of shopping centres and malls for a delightful retail experience.
- Diverse Accommodations: A range of hotels and bed & breakfasts cater to all preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Salinas
Discover the perfect getaway in Salinas, Santa Elena, where a variety of hotels and bed & breakfasts await your arrival. Whether you seek a family-friendly retreat, pet-friendly options, or beachfront accommodations, Salinas offers comfortable lodging tailored to every traveller's needs. With numerous hotel reviews highlighting the area's charm, you're bound to find the ideal place for an unforgettable holiday experience.
- Hotel Colón Salinas: Embrace the coastal charm of Hotel Colón Salinas, a 4-star establishment designed for both leisure and business travellers. Located directly on the beach, this hotel offers a seamless blend of relaxation and accessibility. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms with stunning ocean views, an inviting swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant serving local and international cuisine. The hotel’s proximity to business facilities makes it a suitable choice for those combining work with a beach getaway.
- Blue Bay Hotel: A delightful 3-star option, Blue Bay Hotel boasts a welcoming atmosphere with an impressive guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This beachfront property is ideal for those seeking a relaxing seaside escape. Guests can unwind in comfortable accommodations, with many rooms offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The hotel's amenities include a swimming pool, a restaurant featuring fresh seafood, and easy access to various beach activities, making it a great choice for a tranquil beach holiday.
- Hostería Punta Blanca: Located 21km from Salinas, Hostería Punta Blanca is a 3-star gem with a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This family-friendly establishment is perfect for those travelling with children, offering various amenities such as a shared playground and babysitting services. The direct beach access allows families to enjoy a day by the sea, while the comfortable accommodations ensure a restful stay. With its focus on both relaxation and family-friendly activities, this hostería is a great option for a memorable family holiday.
Where to stay in and around Salinas
Salinas, located in Santa Elena, Ecuador, offers an exhilarating blend of beach, adventure, and outdoor experiences. Just a short drive from central Salinas, you can explore the stunning Salinas Maceió and Salinas Monterey, perfect for sunbathing and family fun. With its vibrant atmosphere, Salinas is ideal for those seeking thrilling adventures and relaxation by the sea, making it a delightful destination for every traveller looking to unwind and explore.
- Santa Elena: Located approximately 11km from Salinas, Santa Elena is a vibrant city that attracts a steady flow of visitors year-round. Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures, this destination is ideal for those seeking thrills in nature. The peak travel periods are from January to February and September, when the warm climate invites beachgoers and adventurers alike. Local highlights include the breathtaking national state park and scenic lookouts that offer panoramic views of the coastline, making Santa Elena a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
- La Libertad: Just 6km from Salinas, La Libertad is a bustling city perfect for families and those seeking a lively urban experience. The city sees its highest number of visitors in February to March and July, when the atmosphere buzzes with activity. La Libertad boasts excellent shopping centres and malls, making it a fantastic place for retail therapy. Additionally, visitors can enjoy its beautiful beachfront and the nearby national state park, along with the popular esplanade that offers leisurely strolls and stunning ocean views.
- Petrópolis: Nestled within the Salinas area, Petrópolis is a charming village that remains relatively undiscovered. Although its visitor numbers peak from December to February, it provides a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind by the beach. The village offers a laid-back atmosphere, with the sandy shores as its main attraction. Visitors can savour the peaceful coastal scenery, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Ecuador's coastline.
Things to do in Salinas
Shopping
In Salinas, you can explore local markets for unique souvenirs and gifts. For a broader shopping experience, head to the Mall del Sol, located 19km away; if you're up for a drive, it offers a variety of international brands and dining options.
Recreation
At the Ocean Spa, indulge in rejuvenating treatments with ocean views, offering massages and holistic therapies. For a tranquil escape, visit the Zen Retreat, where yoga sessions and meditation classes immerse you in relaxation amidst lush gardens, promoting inner peace and mindfulness.
Adventure
Experience thrilling water sports at Salinas Beach, where you can try jet skiing or parasailing above the stunning coastline. Venture to the nearby Punta Carnero for surfing, with its consistent waves attracting enthusiasts. For a unique adventure, explore the nearby Salinas Marine Reserve for snorkelling amidst vibrant marine life.
Nightlife
Salinas comes alive at night with vibrant beach bars like La Isla and lively clubs such as Café del Mar. Enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while soaking up the lively atmosphere, or dance the night away at popular spots like Zorba. The beachfront scenery enhances the evening experience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Salinas
To save money on your trip to Salinas, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June and September, when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find eco-certified hotels and sort options by price to uncover the best deals. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for further savings. Exploring the town on foot is a cost-effective way to enjoy free activities while soaking in the local culture.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Salinas are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Salinas is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Salinas is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Salinas with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Salinas
Salinas, located in Santa Elena, Ecuador, is ideal for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Popular attractions include stunning beaches and nature reserves that cater to those yearning for a coastal experience. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea or engage in outdoor activities, Salinas offers a variety of options to make your holiday memorable.
- Salinas Beach: Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, Salinas Beach offers golden sands and lively beach vibes. It's an ideal spot to relax, swim, or enjoy water sports, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
- La Lobería: Located 5km from Salinas, La Lobería is a nature reserve known for its stunning coastal scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can observe sea lions and various bird species while enjoying tranquil walks along the shoreline.
- Chipipe Beach: Just 3km from Salinas, Chipipe Beach is another gem with inviting sands and a laid-back atmosphere. It's a great place for sunbathing, beach games, or indulging in local cuisine at nearby eateries.
Best time to go to Salinas
The best time to visit Salinas is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Salinas
Travelling to Salinas, Ecuador, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Guayaquil (GYE-José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport) is located 119km away and offers a range of luxurious hotels, such as the 5-star Oro Verde Guayaquil, just 5km from the airport. Transportation services include free airport transfers and 24-hour shuttles. Alternatively, Manta (MEC-Eloy Alfaro International Airport) is 145km from Salinas, with quality accommodation options like the 4.5-star Oro Verde Manta, located 5km from the airport. Hotels in Manta provide on-request shuttle services and other transport options to ensure a smooth journey to Salinas.